theTrenderyhttps://fsladiesblog.wordpress.com
Wed, 25 Feb 2015 23:42:16 +0000enhourly1http://wordpress.com/https://s2.wp.com/i/buttonw-com.pngtheTrenderyhttps://fsladiesblog.wordpress.com
This is an Alaïahttps://fsladiesblog.wordpress.com/2014/01/25/this-is-an-alaia/
https://fsladiesblog.wordpress.com/2014/01/25/this-is-an-alaia/#commentsSat, 25 Jan 2014 22:38:45 +0000http://thetrendery.com/?p=4621]]>I was fortunate to attend the press opening of the Alaïa exhibit at the Palais Galliera, which opened about three months ago in Paris. At the time, I was 9 months pregnant, which was a bit ironic since Mr. Alaïa is as much of a sculptor as he is a couturier, and at the time I’d rather not imagine myself in his body conscious creations. The timeliness of this post is tardy due to the aforementioned changes in my personal life, however the subject addresses one of the the most timeless designers of our time.

Those familiar with the Palais Galliera know that it has been closed for renovations for 4 years, which is nearly the amount of time I’ve lived in Paris. The Alaïa retrospective is a fantastic selection for the re-opening of the museum. What makes it so special is that literally everything on display could be worn today and look just as current as it did at the time of creation, mainly the 80s. Most garments on display sculpt the body entirely, while even draped gowns attest to the couturier’s talent to accentuate a woman’s curves. And while Mr. Alaïa has often described himself as someone who makes clothes instead of fashion, a rare selection of African-inspired garments are also on display. While those are more trend-oriented, like the other Alaïa garments, they are just as relevant today as they ever were.

Filed under: Dresses, Exhibits, Luxury, Paris]]>https://fsladiesblog.wordpress.com/2014/01/25/this-is-an-alaia/feed/0IMG_7573thetrenderyIMG_7551IMG_7549IMG_7550IMG_7552IMG_7553IMG_7554IMG_7555IMG_7557IMG_7558IMG_7563IMG_7565IMG_7566IMG_7567IMG_7569IMG_7571IMG_7572IMG_7574IMG_7575IMG_7580IMG_7582Nuit Blanche: Paris’ Arty Partyhttps://fsladiesblog.wordpress.com/2013/10/05/nuit-blanche-paris-arty-party/
https://fsladiesblog.wordpress.com/2013/10/05/nuit-blanche-paris-arty-party/#commentsSat, 05 Oct 2013 20:25:49 +0000http://thetrendery.com/?p=4605]]>Tonight marks the 12th edition of Paris’ annual nightlong art party, Nuit Blanche. For anyone still in the city post-fashion week, it’s a great (free) cultural event to check out. The entire city comes alive with various art installations scattered everywhere from historical monuments to the riverbanks of the Seine. One of the best parts about it is that you’ll see all types of people out and about, experiencing art in many different forms. To get an idea of what to expect, here are some highlights from last year’s event. Check out tonight’s program here or download the app here.

Filed under: Artists, Exhibits, Inspiration, Paris]]>https://fsladiesblog.wordpress.com/2013/10/05/nuit-blanche-paris-arty-party/feed/21nuit blanche_michel blazythetrendery4nuit blanche_michel blazy2nuit blanche_michel blazy3nuit blanche_michel blazy7IMG_11148nuit blanche_Laurent Grasso9nuit blanche_les freres ripoulain10nuit blanche_les freres ripoulain11nuit blanche_adalberto mecarelli12nuit blanche_julio le parcLittle Black Dresshttps://fsladiesblog.wordpress.com/2013/09/21/little-black-dress/
https://fsladiesblog.wordpress.com/2013/09/21/little-black-dress/#commentsSat, 21 Sep 2013 12:04:16 +0000http://thetrendery.com/?p=4590]]>It’s not often that one encounters a fashion exhibit dedicated to something so classic and relevant today. André Leon Talley, formerly of Vogue and currently editor-at-large of Numéro Russia curated the Little Black Dress exhibit, which was organized by the Savannah College of Art and Design and is currently on view in Paris at the Mona Bismark American Center.

Tom Ford, Fall 11/12

Showcasing 50 LBD’s, the exhibit is a concise edit of the classic wardrobe staple. It successfully illustrates “contemporary significance of a singular sartorial phenomenon” by featuring a sort of best-of LBDs from modern fashion designers. Highlights include Chanel’s Ford style that brought on the trend in 1926 to the Givenchy dress that Audrey Hepburn wore in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, along with an assortment of contemporary designs by the likes of Marc Jacobs, Stella McCartney and Tom Ford. While it was delightful to see some dresses I knew from recent collections, the most compelling part of the exhibit is that literally every dress could be worn today and not look out of place. In an age of fast trends and the next-big-thing, it was ultimately refreshing to be surrounded by a wardrobe staple that commands no such season.

The museum, which houses many works of art, is stunning inside and out, with the Costume Gallery overlooking the Boboli Gardens. Inside, the Gallery occupies the 18th-century Palazzina della Meridiana, which maintains a royal and rich character, complete with chandeliers hanging from the ceilings.

The entire entire collection spans 6,000 items, while a selection of clothes are on view in a series of rooms. Costumes date from the 16th to 20th centuries and also extend into accessories such as shoes and handbags. A particularly dark room displayed the funeral garments of the Grand Duke Cosimo de’ Medici from the 16th century. While the exhibit’s organization appeared in somewhat random order, the costumes on display were all impressive. No one could deny the powerful combination of the garments in such a grand setting; a delightful way to spend an afternoon.

Pitti Palace – Costume GalleryPiazza Pitti 150125 Firenze, Italy

Filed under: Accessories, Dresses, Exhibits, Inspiration, Travel, Vintage]]>https://fsladiesblog.wordpress.com/2013/09/16/the-costume-gallery-at-pitti-palace/feed/1Pitti Palace Costume Gallery1thetrenderyPitti Palace Costume Gallery2Pitti Palace Costume Gallery3Pitti Palace Costume Gallery4Pitti Palace Costume Gallery4aPitti Palace Costume Gallery5Pitti Palace Costume Gallery6Pitti Palace Costume Gallery7Pitti Palace Costume Gallery8Pitti Palace Costume Gallery9Pitti Palace Costume Gallery10Pitti Palace Costume Gallery11Pitti Palace Costume Gallery12Pitti Palace Costume Gallery13Pitti Palace Costume Gallery14Pitti Palace Costume Gallery15Pitti Palace Costume Gallery16Pitti Palace Costume Gallery17A.N.G.E.L.O. VINTAGEhttps://fsladiesblog.wordpress.com/2013/09/15/a-n-g-e-l-o-vintage/
https://fsladiesblog.wordpress.com/2013/09/15/a-n-g-e-l-o-vintage/#commentsSun, 15 Sep 2013 13:40:11 +0000http://thetrendery.com/?p=4555]]>A.N.G.E.L.O. is one of the best known names in vintage; a name that I became familiar with through Pitti Immagine’s Vintage Selection show. While A.N.G.E.L.O. is no doubt a treasure trove for designers and stylists, it also houses one of the largest vintage stores in Europe located in Lugo, Italy. Established for over 30 years, A.N.G.E.L.O. is highly regarded in the world of vintage and often features collaborations, exhibits and special projects.

Here you will find some snaps from my recent visit to A.N.G.E.L.O.’s outpost in Florence. While the 2 level store is relatively small, it features a well-edited and handpicked selection of women’s, men’s and accessory items from the company’s owner Angelo Caroli. Impressive on-trend finds included denim shirts and printed bomber jackets.

In Florence I had the unexpected pleasure of discovering the museum-workshop of Alessandro Dari. Drawn in by the exquisite rings in the window, I was in awe of the goldsmith and sculptor’s collection, which was previously unknown to me and coincidentally in the neighborhood I stayed in. Little did I know that Dari is quite accomplished in his work, and was at one point the chosen artist of the Vatican.

The museum-workshop was divided by thematic collections Dari produced over the past 30 years, ranging from Gothic to sacred art, crowns to butterflies. What makes Dari’s rings so special is that they have such a sculptural quality that is not commonly seen or replicated – truly one-of-a-kind pieces of art. Even more impressive is that Dari is entirely self-taught, having studied ancient goldsmith techniques extensively. Most rings are available to purchase and range in price from about 800€ on up. Explore the website to see the rings up close, and certainly stop by for a visit if you’re in Florence.

Alessandro DariFlorence via San Niccolo 115/r
50125 Firenze, Italy

Filed under: Accessories, Artists, Designers, Inspiration, Travel]]>https://fsladiesblog.wordpress.com/2013/09/14/ring-maestro-alessandro-dari/feed/1alessandro dari_rings_florence1thetrenderyalessandro dari_rings_florence2alessandro dari_rings_florence3alessandro dari_rings_florence4alessandro dari_rings_florence5alessandro dari_rings_florence7alessandro dari_rings_florence8When In Florence: LUISA VIA ROMAhttps://fsladiesblog.wordpress.com/2013/09/08/when-in-florence-luisa-via-roma/
https://fsladiesblog.wordpress.com/2013/09/08/when-in-florence-luisa-via-roma/#commentsSun, 08 Sep 2013 09:33:50 +0000http://thetrendery.com/?p=4519]]>While I spent the better part of my summer in the rolling hills of Tuscany, one can not visit the region without a stop in Florence. And when in Florence, THE major shopping destination is without a doubt, Luisa Via Roma.

I hadn’t been to Florence in years, but I have been following Luisa Via Roma’s impressive social media efforts including their Instagram account, in addition to their website which has become a popular online luxury destination. The flagship store, like online, features a well edited multi-label designer selection including McQueen, Roberto Cavalli, Saint Laurent and Anthony Vaccarello to name a few. Women’s and men’s collections are spread throughout the multi-level store.

While the product assortment alone commands attention, Luisa Via Roma’s in-store digital efforts also struck me. Touch-screen TVs displayed http://www.luisaviaroma.com making it possible to order from the website or perhaps view alternative styles that may not be displayed in store. Worldwide (and often free) shipping is obviously encouraging to visitors and makes Luisa Via Roma a well-known online retailer. The look inside the store with bright lights illuminating stairs and displays echoed the retailer’s digital efforts, not to mention the alternating video backgrounds staged behind mannequins in the windows.

Petit h is displayed prominently in Hermès’ rue de Sèvres flagship in Paris. Shoppers are greeted at the entrance by spaces partitioned by colored ribbon walls and 3D wood blocks. Inside each space it’s kind of like a cabinet de curiosities in that you’re not really sure what you’ll find – perhaps small furnishings, necklaces or silks fashioned into sacks. Prices start around 145€ and could go upwards to the thousands.

While continuing to target the luxury customer, the message that Petit h is trying to portray is that they don’t throw anything away. Materials used in the new range include those with slight defects or products from discontinued lines that are altered, embellished or combined with other fabrics. But it’s not just a quick fix. The artisans of Petit h bring a new and unexpected life to old materials or goods, while creating something entirely new. Now that’s something more luxury houses should aspire to be like!

My first stop was the new Chloé store. While that might seem unlikely, I added it to my list not only because I’m a Chloé fan, but because the Greene Street flagship opened 6 months ago to celebrate the brand’s 60th anniversary. The store is the first new prototype in the US, which follows the design set forth by the Paris and Shanghai flagships and will be expanded to existing US locations. The SoHo space is divided into three areas, with the front and mid-sections dedicated to accessories like handbags, shoes and sunglasses. Clothes appear in the back. Light tones of blush, beige and white create an open atmosphere, while 3D walls add a touch of modernity.

Chloé93 Greene Street New York, NY 10012

My next stop was the new Kirna Zabête flagship on Broome Street, a stone’s throw from the former Greene street location . The new space is HUGE at 10,000 square feet and has a fun feel to it, from the neon words on the wall at the entrance, to the black and white striped floors and cutout chandeliers displayed throughout the store. The store continues to be a leader in multi-label luxury brands, from Celine to Givenchy and Stella McCartney as well as more recent favorites like Prabal Gurung and Joseph Altuzarra. Surely, the new space will allow owners Beth Buccini and Sarah Easley to buy deeper into existing collections and expand with up-and-coming labels.

A trip to SoHo is not complete without hitting West Broadway, which was an early (and quiet) destination for stores before SoHo became the shopping mecca that it is today. I visited Treasure & Bond, the charity store that’s owned by Nordstrom but independently operated. The store opened 1 year ago, and you may have heard of it earlier this year for housing boutiques for the 10 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalists. The store donates to 8 NYC children’s charities per year. The space is over 11,000 square feet and serves the women’s, men’s, accessories and home markets across 2 levels. It has an unfinished warehouse feel by way of concrete floors and industrial lighting, while merchandise is displayed on re-purposed Nordstrom displays (though there are no signs that Treasure & Bond is associated with Nordstrom in the store). With a diverse mix of product, it’s kind of like a treasure trove, and in my estimation, a great destination for gifts. I ended up buying a ring myself.

Of course Opening Ceremony is a must-see destination for all things cool and current – I’ve been saying forever that whatever OC sells turns to gold. Even though owners Carol Lim and Humberto Leon are now at the helm of Kenzo, Opening Ceremony remains relevant for it-labels and collaborations from brands like Band of Outsiders to Proenza Schouler as well as the store’s own private label.

If you remember the early days of Opening Ceremony, you’re going to want to check out American Two Shot. Owned by best friends and opened a year and a half ago, the store features a rather eclectic mix that is part boutique, gallery and coffee shop. In terms of labels, American Two Shot offers a well-edited selection of vintage apparel, along with select pieces from labels like Porter Grey and Samantha Pleet. Dubbed as the “next Opening Ceremony,” keep this one on your radar.

Called the “Vintage Village” project, Habitat initiated the concept in celebration of their 50th anniversary and opened up in June. Although it’s new, the offerings on hand feature plenty of retro finds, with a focus on iconic Habitat furniture and accessories from the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s. Set to a sprawling 400 meters (or 4300 square feet), everything from living room furniture to rugs and lighting is on hand.

Premier Parisian concept store destination L’Eclaireur also made its debut in Vintage Village last month, catering to the fashion set. Unlike Habitat which feels ultimately retro, L’Eclaireur stays true to their strong design aesthetic with an open and modern space that feels more like a boutique or gallery. A presentation of L’Eclaireur’s “contemporary archives” features a well-edited selection of items that were found in the store from the 80s to the 2000s, with brands like Balenciaga, Anne Demeulmeester and Mar­tin Margiela. Limited edition furniture by designer Vin­cenzo de Cotiis was displayed for the opening.

Adding another dimension to Vintage Village, Mademoiselle Steinitz, of the Steinitz international antiques dealers, offers a more artistic approach. While I never heard of Mademoiselle Steinitz prior to my visit, I would have to say that I was most impressed with their rather well curated selection of fine antiques, contemporary art, photography and high end vintage. Compared to Habitat which was full of product (and ultimately approachable) to L’Eclaireur with less product and more ambiance, Mademoiselle Steinitz achieved a balance that felt equally modern and vintage.

I imagine that established vintage dealers were as thrilled about brand names coming to the flea market as communities that see the construction of their first Walmart. However, with 3 select outposts in Vintage Village, and each one done tastefully to a different vision, I think it was well executed. What’s also important is that both Habitat and L’Eclaireur have been established for over 30 years, therefore having lived through several decades of design which we now call vintage. Presence at the flea market will surely cultivate additional brand awareness and recognition. As for the actual sales amongst the stores at Vintage Village, time will tell.

Speaking of new and branded (and if you happen to be hungry) be sure to check out the restaurant Ma Cocotte, designed by Philippe Starck located in the nearby Serpette-Paul Bert market. The industrial space opened several months ago and has already become a popular spot (you may have to wait as they do not accept reservations for Saturday or Sunday lunch). As expected, the interior impresses with tile flooring and homey bookshelves, living room settings and a terrace upstairs.